What Type Of Breast Implant Is Safer? Silicone Or Saline?

The idea of getting a breast augmentation, also known as a boob job, can certainly be an exhilarating one. It is fun to imagine the different styles of clothing you will be able to wear and the newfound sense of confidence you are likely to gain following a breast augmentation. During this exciting time, it is also natural to worry and ask questions. One of the first concerns for many patients considering a breast augmentation is whether or not the procedure is safe. Before diving further into that discussion, it is important to first establish a few basics about breast augmentation, including the different options for the procedure, what to expect, and more.

How is breast augmentation performed?

Though there are alternatives, such as fat transfer, breast augmentation is most often performed with the use of artificial breast implants. Whether you are looking to enhance your natural curves or restore the shape you once had, breast implants can help you achieve your goals. The two most widely used types of implants are saline and silicone gel. Regardless of which type of implant is selected, the procedure itself is performed in more or less the same way.

During your initial consultation and subsequent preoperative appointments at VIP Plastic Surgery in Las Vegas, NV, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Christopher Khorsandi will help you determine which type, size, and style of implant will best fit your needs. Your surgery, which typically lasts about 1-3 hours, will be performed under general anesthesia. Using markings made before the procedure, Dr. Khorsandi will carefully place his incisions in a strategic fashion so that the resulting scars are as minimally visible as possible. The implant is then inserted into the newly created breast pocket, and in the case of some saline implants, it may need to be filled. Once Dr. Khorsandi is happy with the look, shape, and symmetry of the implants, the incisions will be closed with sutures, and you will head to the recovery room.

Should I get silicone or saline breast implants?

The decision to undergo breast augmentation is a significant one on its own, and the caring team at VIP Plastic Surgery understands that the associated questions and details can often be overwhelming and confusing. Our knowledgeable medical staff is committed to providing the most exceptional level of patient care and service and is here to help guide you through the entire process, including the sometimes-difficult choice between saline and silicone implants.

While both types of breast implants have their advantages, certain women may benefit more from saline versus silicone, or the other way around. Certain physical factors such as a patient’s build and amount of native breast tissue are important variables in determining whether silicone or saline is a more fitting option. Thinner women with smaller breasts, for instance, may achieve better results with silicone implants. Because saline implants are more prone to rippling, women without much native tissue to conceal those imperfections often opt for silicone implants. A large number of patients also agree that silicone implants give a more natural look, as well as feel, when compared with saline implants.

The choice between saline and silicone breast implants is ultimately a personal one, but an experienced and qualified surgeon can help advise you on which option may best fit your needs and help you achieve your aesthetic goals.

Are silicone or saline breast implants safer?

One of the many questions that comes up as women consider breast augmentation with silicone versus saline implants is which type of implant is safer. Both silicone and saline implants are FDA approved and considered safe for use in breast augmentation procedures. There was a period of time when it was thought that silicone implants may be the cause of illness, and the FDA revoked its approval. Studies showed, however, that there was no increased risk of breast implant illness for patients with silicone gel implants versus those with saline, and the FDA restored its approval, which still stands today.

Another safety concern for patients thinking about breast augmentation is the chance of implant rupture. It is important to keep in mind that breast implants are not designed to be lifelong devices, and that a revision may likely be needed in the future. When a saline implant ruptures, the saltwater solution inside will be absorbed by the body. While this is harmless, patients will experience an immediate deflating of the implant and require surgery to remove the old shell and place a new one. In the case of rupture of a silicone implant, the cohesive gel material is contained and does not leak out. In general, silicone gel implants have a much lower rate of rupture than saline, but it is more difficult to detect if or when there has been a rupture. Dr. Khorsandi and the expert team at VIP Plastic Surgery can discuss the various additional safety aspects of silicone versus saline implants during your initial consultation.

How do I get started?

If you think breast augmentation with silicone or saline breast implants may be right for you, the first and most important step is to be evaluated by a qualified, certified, and experienced plastic surgeon. Call our convenient Las Vegas, NV office to schedule your consultation with Dr. Christopher Khorsandi today, and learn more about how breast implants can enhance your contour, boost your confidence, and help you achieve the body of your dreams!